Bruising to immobile children

Immobile children are those who cannot move around by themselves.

It is difficult to cause bruising to immobile children with day-to-day activities such as feeding and nappy changing. Even where babies fall or get knocked it is unusual for them to bruise (unlike children who are crawling or walking who often get bruises).

In Bracknell Forest any professional who comes across bruising in an immobile child is required to refer the child to a specialist child doctor (paediatrician) as it can be a sign of a health condition, a blood disease or an infection.

The child will also be referred to Children’s Social Care, who will work with the specialist child doctor to decide what further steps, if any, need to be taken.

If you think that a child or young person may be at risk of harm or neglect, please contact the MASH team on 01344 352005.